Play Group Mommy

Christmas & Baby Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:09:00 +0000

Christmas has come and gone but it was wonderful. :) Stress free, enjoyable and spent quality time with our family. It really doesn't get any better than that. My favorite gift this year was definitely the time spent with family I had not seen in over a year. They arrived on Tues. night very late and we spent four days with them. They were good to the girls, Santa was good to the girls and we are just very blessed.

The girls love all their presents and can't make up their minds which ones to play with more often. Some of them still have not been opened up yet....we still have the rest of this week before school starts back. I told them to spread it out, enjoy what you have now and play with something new later this week. The house is a disaster with toys all over, but I don't care.. today anyways!

Went to my 20 week appointment today, so far so good. I have lost a couple pounds since my last visit, which actually makes me not have gained anything since I got pregnant. Good I suppose, since I am still wearing my same clothes. I think I weigh less than I did before I got pregnant actually. I am sure it will show up and will probably be overnight! I was like that with J, didn't really start gaining until about 6 to 7 months. Thankfully the doctor gave me some antibiotics for this cold I can't seem to get rid of. I've had it for over a month now, so once I start the meds, I hope to feel better soon.

Tomorrow is the big ultrasound at 9 am. Still nervous and anxious, but so far everything is good. The heartbeat is strong, my blood screenings all came back normal, and I think I am starting to feel the baby move around occasionally. I will feel alot better when I feel him/her move constantly.

Stay tuned for the big announcement tomorrow....or I hope to anyways! Let's pray baby cooperates :)

Christmas Time, Christmas Time

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:27:00 +0000

It's almost Christmas time! Hard to believe in 4 days it will all over, well the presents opened and the kids begging to open up all the boxes so they can play with said toys. Christmas dinner will be cooking and hopefully we'll be able to relax and enjoy! This year has flown by and soon it'll be the New Year.

I am done shopping for the kids and hubby but still have a few more gifts I need to buy and soon! I am dreading going to the store, I know it'll be insanely busy. I have went the last two weekends and it's not been bad.... but we now in the week of Christmas. Hubby and I bought each other new cell phones, Blackberry Curves. They were on sale at Best Buy and he knew I had been wanting one for almost a year now. I love it, it's violet and pretty! He's pretty in love with his too. :)

I love the holiday season, getting Christmas cards in the mail and sometimes the kids get unexpected gifts, like today. I have a dear friend, and she knows who she is, who sent my girls a package for Christmas. They opened it today when J got home and they are so excited to read about your home state. :) It brought some tears to my eyes, because I miss you bunches and because across the miles you are wonderful to us all. Thank you for brightening their day! Loved the Christmas card too. :)

Family will be arriving on Wednesday, to say we are excited is not enough lol. The girls can't wait to see their Nana, Papa and Aunt L. It's been a year and half, since we were in Hawaii, so it'll be a nice visit . Also, as long as things go well and as planned my mom will be back in the mainland by March. Super excited about that, she'll be here for the baby to be born!

On the baby front, I seem to be feeling better most days. Still having a few issues in the evening but not nearly as bad as before. Our big ultrasound is scheduled for the 29th of this month. I am ready... but nervous as well. Just praying that everything is good with the little bean!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to all!

14 days and counting

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:56:00 +0000

Until the "big" ultrasound....that's right two weeks from today, hopefully we'll know that we are having a healthy boy or girl. It doesn't seem possible I am 18 weeks pregnant and almost halfway there. As much as I hate to admit it, I have not really enjoyed this pregnancy thus far. There has been alot of issues off and on, being sick the entire time, and dead tired, not exactly the picture perfect final pregnancy I was hoping for.

In most recent news, I came down with a stomach bug, that lasted 12 hours last Thursday. Oh I was soo very sick, and could not keep anything down. Hubby was worried so he called the dr and they sent me straight to labor & delivery. I was very dehydrated, so much they had trouble finding a vein to give me the IV. After several unsuccessful attempts they finally got it in, my arm is now bruised in several places and it hurts. My dr decided I needed to stay overnight, so I was admitted. Not exactly what I was hoping for, but I know it was for the best. Thankfully once I was admitted I no longer was sick, but wasn't allowed anything but ice chips that night and clear liquids the next morning. I was able to progress to jello and soup by mid morning and finally a real lunch and was released around 3.

The rest of the weekend I spent at home trying to recoup and feel better for work this week. I did manage to get a little Christmas shopping done on Sunday, but was exhausted and not feeling well by the time we were done. I am 95% done shopping, just need to get the stockings done for the girls and buy something for some family members. However I still need to wrap it ALL. Well I have 10 days left lol :)

Not much else is going on, just getting ready for the holiday and the last 2 days of work. Then I will be off for two weeks and enjoy some family time. Thankfully when I return to work in Jan, I will only be working two days a week. I am looking forward to it!

Winter Wonderland

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 23:05:00 +0000

Well not exactly but close enough! We had our first "snow day" of the season, I know in Alabama!! I even took pics to prove it did happen! :) See below!

Isn't it pretty? We got approximately half an inch and some areas got a whole one lol. Ok moving on, now that we have established it DOES snow in Alabama. :)

I went to the dr last Monday for my 16 week check up, and I can't believe how the time is flying by. They were a little concerned I was a bit dehydrated and I just knew I would end up at L&D getting fluids, but bless their hearts, I got to stay home. I just had to drink alot of water and rest, so I have been.

They scheduled my next appointment and my ultrasound appointment! WOOT, I go back Dec 28 & Dec 29- U/S appt. So excited, and hopefully we'll find out what this little bean is! I was only slightly disappointed it wasn't before Christmas, since I was hoping to tell my family while there were here.

So my dad has guessed what gender everyone is going to have and so far he's been right on all accounts...scary eh! So I asked him what his prediction was, he said " I would like for you to have a little boy now, but I think it's a girl". So we'll see if he's on a winning streak lol.

No other news to report, just waiting to drop down some days at work, so I can relax more and get caught up on stuff. I could vent about the bank that we had to deal with but I am not going to bother, it'll just make me mad again!

Until next time...

Thanksgiving Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 13:47:00 +0000

Wishing you a Happy Belated Thanksgiving!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving here at home, the four of us plus my dad and my father in law. Surprisingly it went off without a hitch! Had alot of yummy foods, made my first sweet potato casserole, it was not to bad. The girls had a nice time visiting with their two grandpas. Today we are heading over to my sister in laws for our next turkey dinner, ummm can we say turkey overload?! Though I think they will have ham too, so maybe I'll have some of that instead....oh who am I am kidding, I love turkey.

I just can't believe we are already at the end of November and Christmas will be here in less than a month. A month? um hello, I have way to much shopping and prep work to do for that to happen! The good thing about it though is my mom, sister and stepdad will be here for Christmas. So excited, it's been a year and half since we last saw in them in Hawaii. It'll be nice to spend the holiday with them.

Baby update, things seem to be going ok at this point. Morning sickness still comes and goes, which has worn out its welcome, but I am surviving. I'll be 16 weeks on Monday, and go back to the dr then. I am hoping they will schedule my 20 week appt and ultrasound as well, and just maybe we'll be able to find out what gender this little bean is. :) Though knowing our luck in the past, they will not be able to tell.....ugh. I thought it would be a nice Christmas surprise to tell our families, so we'll see. Just about everyone knows now I am pregnant, though I still have a few friends who do not know, because I haven't seen them yet.

On the work front, it's going ok. I am getting more and more tired already...I thought the second trimester was the energy one??? I am missing that lol. I did tell them though I wanted to drop to two days a week as soon as possible. I am so behind on things I really need to cut back so I can get caught up, both playgroup and girl scout wise.

Not much else to report here, just busy getting ready for Christmas already. The tree is up and decorated as well as the stockings and a few indoor decorations. I want to do some outside stuff, but we'll see if I can get hubby to agree!

Get Over it Already!

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:19:00 +0000

Let me start by staying this is a vent and if you don't want to read it, then skip it.

Get Over It! That's what I want to say to some people right now. Point blank, I am busy, I am tired, I am pregnant and can't get to every single thing YOU want me to do right when YOU want it done. I wait on people ALL the time to do stuff and hope it gets done, but the one time I am not ready, everyone wants to have a conniption fit. Get OVER it already. It'll get done, but in case anyone forgets, I work Mon-Fri, and not able to get online until after 3pm if then and sometimes not until after dinner and still have to help with homework, do Girl Scout stuff and try to figure out dinner as well, give me a break OK?!

I have a zillion emails I need to answer, girl scout meetings to plan, try to attend an event once a month, get ready for visitors for Thanksgiving and there just isn't enough time. I need to get Christmas lists together for family who is asking about things for the girls, I need to start Christmas shopping for the girls, and well there is a ton of other things I need to do but they'll have to wait.

Since I started working, my 'friendships' have become non existent, and I feel pretty out of the loop and often left out. I thought I would be in control when I started working but I have fallen down on so many levels. I rarely see my friends and when I do, I don't feel connected to them anymore. Sigh, table for pity party of 1 please.

On a brighter note, dh and I went on a date night this past Friday night. We went to the Melting Pot for dinner and it was devine. We skipped the main course, had cheese fondue, salad and dessert and it was the perfect amount of food. I can't wait to go back! We did manage to get a little Christmas shopping done for the girls but came home a littler early because I was so tired. Saturday we all went up to Monte Sano for a picnic and playtime, the weather has been gorgeous, so we took advantage of it.

Vent over and now I hope the rest of my day doesn't drive me insane.

November Rain

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:36:00 +0000

Well not really.....yet. However I am sure the rain is coming soon enough, because the weeks and weeks of rain we had was not enough. I was beginning to think we had relocated to Seattle. :)

October has come and gone and it went by pretty fast, though for the most part I was sick and not feeling well. I managed to work as much as I could but still am not sure what I am going to do as far as staying or dropping down some days. I am so exhausted now, even at 12 weeks, I just don't know that I can continue working 5 days, keep up with meetup (which I am way behind on) and continue doing Girl Scouts as well. I need some sanity and it doesn't seem to be anywhere.

The girls had a good Halloween, J was a vampiress and H a cute witch. Our neighborhood doesn't seem to do the candy thing, maybe the lack of kids, so we went to one down the street. We only went on the outer road around it and it took 2 hours and they came back with loaded bags of candy! Needless to say they were excited. We tried to go downtown earlier in the day for some event that was "supposed" to be fun, but we were not impressed and left after about 10 mins. It took longer to get there and back than they had stuff to do. Two thumbs down from us.

This past Monday I had my 12 week checkup at the doctor. I had been worried since the couple weeks before when I had to go to L&D and be put on bedrest for a week. However the dr was able to find the heartbeat, it was around 155. She also is putting me on some blood pressure pills since it seems to be high every time I go in. Sigh, I need to find a new family dr too, but our insurance changes in Jan, so I am worried about finding one. I go back in 4 weeks, I'll be at 16 weeks then, and then in another 4, I'll be able to get my next "big" ultrasound! :)

Other than that I have just been battling a head cold for about a week now. Having issues sleeping since I can't breathe well and even during the day hasn't been great. I have been going to bed at 9 pretty much every night this week, which has helped but I hate going to bed so early, because that is the time I use to get caught up. What's another week, when you are already 2 weeks behind anyway?

Overdue for an update

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:30:00 +0000

Sometimes I do not realize how long it's been since I have last posted and then other times I am just to lazy lol but that doesn't help my few readers I do have. :) So this post will be updates a plenty because last time I posted was over a month ago, eek!

Where do I start? Do I tell you how work is doing, school, Girl Scouts or the fact I am a little over 10 weeks pregnant? As you read that sentence, I can hear you saying duh lol so we'll start with the pregnant thing. ;) Baby #3 is on the way, edd is May 18 a few days after my 33rd birthday should we make it that far. This was kinda a surprise, not a surprise as in we haven't been TTC, but as in it's been over a year and half of trying and after a miscarriage in Feb, just surprised it finally happened. We found out early in Sept (right after I started working) and it's been a couple issues here and there since morning sickness has been kicking my butt in the first 8 weeks. Then on top of that I have had some spotting issues and landed at the L&D floor last Thurs. night for 5 hours. Thankfully everything seemed OK and the baby's heartbeat was around 180. My next appointment isn't until Nov 2, so I really don't have anything else to add, except keep us in your thoughts and prayers for a healthy 9 months. :)

Work is going OK, but I am in a bind on trying to figure out what to do. I have missed quite a few days to being so sick, and then my Dr put me on modified bed rest this week so no work. I really don't know how much longer I can do it, I am so tired all the time, it's hard for me to get up and moving at 6 am right now and plus the spotting issues. I am trying to figure out if I will just drop to a few days a week or quit...I really need to decide so I can let them know. DH is supportive either way, which is great, but also makes the decision harder to make. Thoughts?

The girls are still doing well with school. J is in drama club, she had "auditions" Tues. this week, so we'll find out in a couple weeks what part she got. I hope she enjoys it, whatever it ends up being. H loves her teacher and going to school and she's learning so much, I am glad we decided to put her into a MDO program. She misses her playgroup friends (as I do too) but overall the adjustment has gone well.

Life is busy as normal, we are gearing up for our annual group Halloween party, it should be fun. It's alot of work for us organizers but the end result is always awesome and the kids love it. We haven't made it to the pumpkin patch this yr, yet.... I am still hoping to fit a trip in before Halloween, somehow. I think we'll go one afternoon, since it's a little cheaper then. The girls have both chosen something different for Halloween costumes this year, kind of surprised about that. Normally they want to be girly, princess type things but this year H is going to be a witch (cute) and J a vampiress. I'll be sure to post pictures soon.

So that's us in a nutshell for now, will try to do better about posting!

Updates a plenty

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:38:00 +0000

Well I am finishing up my first 2 weeks of work, and all is going well. It's a really easy job, sometimes busy and sometimes not. Everyone is super nice and helpful and H loves going to school everyday. I sure hope that continues next yr into Kindergarten!

Though I am glad to have a job, I am sure missing all my mom friends and playdates! I really need to start going to some more moms night outs, so I can still be connected to everyone. I haven't been to anything in over 15 days! I need to schedule a dinner out soon and a craft night at my house.

I am now trying to prepare for Girl Scouts, we had our parent meeting today. Everyone showed up and we got all the paperwork filled out and in two weeks the girls will be meeting for the first time. We have alot to cover so hopefully they all are able to come. J was excited to see some of her friends today, she didn't know they were coming over hehe, I like surprises! I am looking forward to a fun year with them and hope they love it and learn as well.

We are in the process of trying to get estimates on our roof, it has hail damage from all the storms that came in early this spring. So far we have had 2 including the insurance adjuster, so we want to get a couple more and go from here....but are having a hard time getting people to call back. I am sure they are busy too, since there is alot of people getting new roofs. I just want mine done sooner than later when even more rain comes.

In other news we need a new a/c unit :( Ours is about on its last leg lol, it keeps freezing up and not working properly. I am sure it needs some freon but that will not fix the issue. I am hoping once tax time comes we can get this done, I hate to wait until then but the money is tied up until then. If it's not one thing going wrong it's another!

Back to Work!

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 23:50:00 +0000

Finally a job offer! Picture me doing the happy dance. :)

I have mentioned in a couple of posts that I have been looking for a part time or full time job depending on the pay and finally got an offer today on what seems to be the "perfect job". It's at H's school, Mon-Fri 8:30 to 1:30, all the same holidays/days off as the school J goes to. You know what is even better?? H gets to go full time for FREE and I still get paid! Oh yah, that's what I am talking about!

If all goes as planned I will start the Tues after Labor Day, least that is the plan. The only thing that could throw a wrench in this plan is the flu. J come down with a fever yesterday morning which hasn't let up and overall pretty miserable, sore throat, coughing etc. So off to the ped office we went, and she tested positive for the flu. Now we don't know if its the "regular" flu or the "swine" aka "H1N1" flu since they aren't subtyping it but they are treating it the same, tamiflu it is. I feel really bad for her, she's been laying around for 2 days now and doesn't seem to be feeling any better. I hope after a few days of meds she will be on the road to recovery.

H is adjusting well to school, she loves going and is excited about going everyday like big sister. This makes the job transition even better and it'll probably help that she'll likely see me a couple times through out the day. We are working on eating better for lunch time, some days she does ok and others not so much. Baby steps.

J seems to be enjoying school as well, and is excited about starting back to Girl Scouts in Oct. I am the Junior Scout leader for her troop. On top of that I have been asked to be the Troop Organizer for Providence School. Hmm I may just be a glutton for punishment. My current "jobs" : HMMT Organizer, NJM Asst Organizer, Troop Leader, Troop Organizer, Mom, Wife and yes soon to be Program Aide part time. If you never hear from me again, you'll know why!

I'll check in soon with updates on how work and Girl Scouts are going :)

School, Jobs & Life

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:48:00 +0000

School is underway for the girls, so far so good. Hailey likes her teacher and school and loves to come home and tell me what they did for the day. Since starting school though she has been much more loveable and cuddly and tells me she wants to stay with me forever. Awww, sweet, really, but we both know that can not happen. In fact I don't know what she'll do if I do go back to work full time since she would have to be in some type of care full time. This is the part that kills me about working full time. She only has 1 more year left at home and I was really hoping to enjoy it with her before she goes off to Kindergarten.

Jess is still doing well, no complaints as of yet. She doesn't seem to be having trouble with homework yet and she likes her teacher. She is going to be a Junior Scout this year and somehow I have roped myself into being a troop leader for her. Hmm what was I thinking? I do have two moms who have agreed to be asst. leaders so that will help but I worry about the time commitment, especially if I go to work. It'll work out somehow, but probably not the way I want it too.

In the last few weeks I have probably applied to 30 jobs or so and am continually looking online to see what I can find. I need to go up to Gymboree and turn in an application there. I have a friend that works there and I believe they are hiring. Maybe I'll go up there later today or Sat morning. I applied for a job at Regions Bank, as a full time teller. I took the assessment test at the main office and passed. I am not just waiting to hear back, they of course are doing a background/credit check. I wish I knew a timeline they might contact me back so I would have an idea one way or the other, but I do not.

I really do not want to work, but we really need to get caught up on bills and put some into savings. I like being home and able to volunteer and do things with the kids, like help at school, do Girl Scouts etc. I guess only time will tell how this is going to work out.

School Days

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:08:00 +0000

School began this week and boy were the girls ready, unfortunately Hailey couldn't go today because she has a cold. Sigh. Really? After all this time I have been waiting for some FREE time and it's a no go?! She will be better Thursday, she will. Do you hear me? She did go for a short while Monday for orientation and meet her teacher, so that was good. So far Jess is loving school, she did have homework today, but only gets it 3 times a week.

I am still looking for a job but have decided maybe just a part time night job would be better. I applied to Target today, for cashier/sales floor so maybe I'll get a call soon. In the mean time I am trying to start up my Usborne Books business. I bought a catchy domain name today, http://www.EarnFreeBooks.com which totally surprised me it wasn't already taken! I am hoping to get $115 in retail sales in my 1st 12 weeks, that is my beginning and only quota to make as a consultant. So basically I need to find 11 people to buy a book! Are you interested? Over 80% of their books are $10 or less! Hold a party and earn FREE books!

Other news, I have decided to become a Girl Scout Troop Leader, for Jessica's troop specifically. Her previous leader has moved on since her children are at different schools. I am meeting on Thurs morning with the area manager and going over things. Then it's off to plan a billion things for this yr! I hope this weekend I can brainstorm and come up with some great ideas.

The Month of Change

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 04:27:00 +0000

I have decided this is the month of change for me. Things have been kinda of crazy around here, me overstressed about our budget, thanks to my new car. I needed the car but of course here it is back to school time, both girls need clothes and of course Christmas is around the corner. So the conclusion... I need to go to work. Atleast for awhile until we get caught up on things and put some money in savings. We are going to likely need a new roof, pretty much everyone in our neighborhood is getting one from the hail damage, so we have to come up with the deductible money. Sigh, school lunches, school clothes, school tuition, and of course Christmas.

I have applied to a bunch of jobs in the last week and have an "assessment test" at Regions Bank on the 18th of this month, hopefully it'll go well. Atleast that would be day time hours and no weekends and they usually pay pretty well. The downfall, having to find Hailey full time care....not really thrilled about that. She is going to 2 days a week MMO this fall but I would have to figure out something for the rest of the time.. I thought maybe I could find someone in the group who wanted to earn extra money. Guess we'll cross that bridge when we get there.

Another change, I was trying to decide whether to reactivate my Tupperware business or let it go.... ultimately I chose to let it go. I love the products and company but right now I can't have a business where I have to meet minimums. So I have been looking at other companies and have signed up with Usborne Books & More. I have a one time minimum to meet in my 1st 12 weeks, $115 in retail, and nothing else after that unless I become a supervisor. Those of you reading, help a girl out, go visit and buy a book or two to help me meet my goal! :) While you are there be sure to enter into the drawing for $50 in FREE BOOKS!

I am excited about this company, as I love books and so do my kids. Now I can build their library, earn money and get a discount, how great is that! I hope to do a few home shows here and there and then work my way into schools/preschools around here doing fundraisers and more. It's really a great program available for them and I would love to introduce it to the schools around here.

Jessica had a wonderful 9th birthday! We did a small family thing and she enjoyed going bowling and to dinner. She loved all her presents, which was mostly HSM stuff, room decor, toys etc. She is also excited to be going back to school next Monday. We go tomorrow to meet her teacher and turn in school supplies. I know I'll miss her but she is ready for the routine again and truthfully so am I. Hailey also goes in starting Tuesday and we go see her class and meet her teacher on Monday morning.

Don't forget to go check out my website and enter to win free books and book a party too!

Almost Birthday Time

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:15:00 +0000

It's almost Jessica's 9th birthday! Wow, talk about feeling old now lol seems like just yesterday she was just learning to walk. I feel kinda like an awful mom right now, I was sick last week with headache after headache and didn't realize her birthday was this upcoming weekend. I thought I still had atleast 2 weeks left, umm wow I was wrong! She really wanted to have a sleep over for her birthday with some friends from school and brownies, but oops, not enough time for that now. So instead she asked to go bowling and to dinner, so that is what we'll do as a family. I wanted to take her to the cool new place, The Station, but it's $6 a game plus $4 shoe rental, um hello! I think we'll go to Madison Bowling Center, it's half the cost and maybe will not be as busy. One can hope anyways.

Last weekend we went school supply shopping, and even though it was quite a list I only spent $32 on Jessica's stuff. Not bad! I did buy Hailey a book bag and a lunch bag to match, I am guessing that is all she'll need. Walmart school supply section sucks this year, they didn't have much of anything and it was spread out all over the store? Why? Why is there pallets of paper in the craft/fabric section?

We're wrapping up the last few days of summer, getting in as many playdates as we can and spending time together. We have orientations next week and then school the following week, yay! Though Hailey may not get to start on time if we can't get her, her 4 yr old shots. They put us on a wait list, maybe we'll get called before school starts....but I am not holding my breath.

I am still hoping to hear back from the job I applied for sometime this week, could really use the money soon. I am looking at other options as well, but really don't want to go full time, but I guess if I find the "right" job I would. Keeping my fingers crossed I hear back from the one I want right now!

Back to School - 20 Days & Counting

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:54:00 +0000

I can't believe school is only 20 days away! Jess is going into 4th grade this year, oh my, where did my little girl go? Hailey will be starting moms day out two days a week for four hours each day. That is really bittersweet, wasn't she just born yesterday? Sigh, guess not lol but it sure feels like it.

I am still waiting on the school to publish the supply list for this year, they have last years up still... um hello 20 days away, lets update already! I know they are busy, but come on, this is just a little important. I need to run up to Walmart I guess and see if they have the lists out yet as they have in the past. I really hope to not spend more than $50 but I guess it'll depend on what is left at the store by the time I get to shop. Luckily for Hailey I only need to have her a small backpack and lunch bag :) She is soo excited about going to school this fall, just like Jessica.

I am thrilled that I will get a few hours to myself two times a week, I am not sure what I'll do lol but can't wait! I have been trying to find some ways to make money at home yet again, other than a home business. Luckily I was able to find a work at home job, but its a temp contract, Sept thru Dec, but it'll come in handy for Christmas shopping. I have applied for a local part time job, I hope to hear something back this week. It would be perfect, the hours and pay is just what I need right now.

On the weight loss front, I did manage to lose one more pound this past week, whooohooo! I am down officially now 10lbs, very happy about that. I still have a long ways to go but it's nice to see the number steadily dropping on Monday mornings. Still trying to motivate myself to get some exercise though, one day I swear it will happen! Oh hubby has lost a total of 12lbs since he started the lower fat and portion controls with me :) I am proud of us both!

We're off to the Dentist, the wonderful Dentist of....

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:37:00 +0000

Madison LOL. :) Jess is going back to the dentist today for 2 cavities to be filled they are very small and they only noticed them on the x-rays, so that's good. Last week we went in because she had been complaining about a tooth and her gum hurting her and she had this little tag of skin hanging down, looked as if it had bled some. I think because she kept messing with it. Either way they didn't seem overly concerned since the tooth itself was fine, and it doesn't look to be abscessed. Good news! However they are keeping an eye on it and we go into today they'll recheck it to see if they need to take it off.

The doctor mentioned something about not numbing her when they do the fillings.....eek! I said she has a low tolerance for pain, she'll likely need to be numbed. I don't want her to be afraid of going back in life. They also mentioned she'll probably get braces at 12, she's got some issues with crowding already with the permanent teeth that have come in. Fun times, can't wait... um right.

Hailey's teeth looked great, on the x-ray it did show one of her perm teeth coming in a little crooked on the bottom, but he said it could straighten out. Fingers crossed! They just opened their new office not to long ago, it's pretty nice. They have an indoor play area, like at food places, some big screen tv's, video games etc. Kids love going just for that LOL

On the weight loss front, I am down another 3.5lbs, for a total of 9lbs now. :) I am proud of that, and hope it continues. I talked to my mom yesterday, she may be having surgery for some bone spurs in her feet. She has an appt with the foot dr today. So I'll know more soon. Other news though, is she has some places on her hands, that is looking very much like the skin cancer she had on her foot last year about this time. They are going to do a biopsy on Aug 4 to find out if it is skin cancer. I am really worried about her, she's over in HI alone right now and has no support. :( This is all weighing in heavily on my heart right now. Prayers needed.

Happy July!

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:42:00 +0000

Wow, July is already here, can't believe the summer is half over already! Kinda of sad and kinda of not about that lol, I am looking forward to the girls going to school in August so I can have a little me time.

We had a great 4th of July weekend, we had a picnic with the HMMT group. It was alot of fun and games for the kids (and dads too) and the weather was just perfect! We spent a good 3 hours at the park letting the kids play while the adults chatted and relaxed. Later that night we went to Bridgestreet to watch the city fireworks, it was wonderful. We did have to get there about an hour and half before the show in order to get a parking spot, but it worked out and we had a nice viewing spot of them. Next year I'll take a little more snacks for the kids while we wait.

Jess has to go to the dentist tomorrow, seems she has an issue with the silver crown they put one of her back teeth or the gum is infected. Either way she has been complaining since last week, so we're off to the dentist. I had planned a playdate today at the house but ended up cancelling since normally they see us the same day. They didn't call back for quite sometime, well then they ended up not being able to see us today! I was kinda mad, I could have kept my playdate on for today and let the kids have some fun. Oh well, tomorrow we should have some company, that will improve their moods.

As for me, I weighed in yesterday and was down 3lbs! Yay, that's a total of 5.5lbs since June 15th. Last week I had gained and was discouraged but I kept plugging along on my diet and it seemed to help. Hubby, well I don't think he weighed in, so not sure what is going on with him. We'll have to check him again next week, hopefully he'll have a loss too.

Here is a couple pics from the 4th.

Hailey really loves to play with playdoh and Jess loves Hula Hoops! lol

This is their fireworks tshirts they made, we got this fun event from Family Fun online. They really enjoyed the craft, it was simple, a little messy but fun! Next year I think we'll do it again but a different way, probably a little less messy at that!

Busy, Busy All The Time

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:17:00 +0000

Well that is how it seems for me lately, I barely get time to blog about anything fun lol because you know I do FUN stuff all the time. Ok probably not all the time, but I do try to keep the girls busy so they aren't driving each other crazy with school out. One month down one to go for Summer vacation and I am still trying to plan the rest of July out.

We were planning on going to the Tennessee Aquarium at the end of July but I quickly realized that is not going to happen with our car tags due this month. EEK, and I know mine will be high, the other 2 cars I am not to worried about. I think it would be better to go in Sept anyways, it'll be a little cooler and not as crowded since school will be back in.

Speaking of school, I can't believe J will be going into 4th grade! How did that happen? Wasn't she just born like yesterday? LOL apparently not, her 9th birthday is quickly approaching. I already have the bulk of her presents done, as I did after Christmas shopping for that. So I will basically just need cake and decorations and a party! H will also be starting preschool 2 days a week this fall. I will get a much needed break and she'll start learning even more things she needs for Kindergarten, in the fall 2010. Though I am not sure what I'll do during my free eight hours a week lol but I am sure that it'll go by quickly! I for sure see a couple coffee mornings in here and there :)

We are also trying to pick a day to have a yard sale and try to purge all the junk, I mean awesome stuff we have in the garage OUT. I would love to be able to park my car in there, esp come this winter! We'll see how it goes, as it is pretty hot right now but we have alot of summer stuff that needs to go! Wish us luck!

Summer Time Has Arrived

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:14:00 +0000

Holy cow it's hot outside! It has been hot for quite some time but not it's gotten to the high 90's and 100's some days and don't forget to add that big ol' heat index in. Sigh, makes me wish we had a pool here at the house, but of course we would need a fence first. I think that is on the agenda for next year after we pay off my hearing aids. It would be nice to have the backyard fenced in for the kids and the dog to run around.

We have been trying to keep cool by doing mostly indoor things but even that gets old pretty fast. The girls and I have been attending playdates when we can, indoor and outdoor ones, because they are driving me batty when we are inside to long. :) This past Monday we did Fireworks Tshirts, they were alot of fun. The girls will look cute wearing them on the 4th of July at the playgroup picnic. I will be sure to post pictures of them!

Not much else going on, I started Weight Watchers last week, and lost 3.5 lbs! WOOT, so on to week 2 and hopefully more weight loss. I have done WW in the past so I know it works, I just need to stay motivated and work at it. Hubby also joined with me and he has lost 3lbs so far, and he's doing well on the plan too. I will keep everyone posted how it goes and hopefully have weight loss results each week!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Back from Disney

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:47:00 +0000

We are back from Disney and had a wonderful time! Sure it rained, as we expected it too, every day in fact! However we did not let this stop us from going to the parks and having a blast. If anything the rain helped with the crowds :)

We spent 7 nights at Coronado Springs Resort, beautiful resort. Great new renovated rooms, queen size beds, flat screen TVs and an awesome pool with slide! The kids couldn't quit talking about it and begging to go back everyday. Other than the rain it was beautiful blue skies the rest of the time and in the high 80's most days.

We had reservations for several character meals, so the girls got to meet several princesses, pooh, tigger, Eeyore, Mickey, Lilo & Stitch as well. They both have an autograph book and a half filled with signatures from all the characters they met. I can't wait to get all the photos printed and put in for them. It's definitely a great keep sake of their trip.

Here are a few pics to enjoy, I took over 300 myself and that doesn't include the photopass ones as well. I still need to order the cd and get all of them! :) I will be posting the rest of the pics to facebook this week, I am still sorting and organizing :)

Enjoy!

It's almost time to visit the Mouse!

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Mickey Mouse that is! We leave in 2 days to head down to Orlando and Walt Disney World. We still haven't told the girls we are doing too Disney, want it to be a surprise and them not pester us until we go. So far so good, they both think we are going to Florida to visit their grandpa. He lives just a few hours away from Disney.

We have found the perfect way to surprise them! We were shopping at Walmart the other day and found these cute gift bags shaped like Cinderellas castle. On the front they have doors that open and inside is several of the princesses. Score! Inside we will put some Disney tshirts we bought before xmas at a good deal, their autograph books, pens, some cameras and a few other knick knacks! I can't wait to see their faces when they figure out we are going to Disney!

We are driving down to Tifton Ga on Thurs and then Friday morning getting up and driving the last 4 hours to Orlando. We are staying at Coronado Springs Resort, it's so beautiful. I will be sure to share tons of pictures when we get back.

Have a great week everyone!

May Showers Bring May Flowers?

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Thu, 07 May 2009 18:10:00 +0000

I know that isn't correct, but all we have had is May showers since May started. Yesterday we were so lucky to have a F2 tornado hit Madison/Huntsville. First of all, we are ok, there was no damage to our house or property. Others not so lucky, several people in our neighborhood lost trees in the winds/storm yesterday. The ones here were snapped off rather than uprooted like many others. We have had so much rain that even 18 ft pine trees were uprooted! Yesterdays storm wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been, but it was scary.

Other news, it's May, the busy month of holidays and celebrations! We'll start off with Mothers Day later this week, my birthday next week on Friday, we leave for our Disney trip on the 21st and then celebrate our 9th Anniversary on the 27th of this month. Poor hubby lol I think my car and our trip will be the presents received. I am excited about the trip though, only 2 weeks to go and we'll be in beautiful Orlando for 8 days! We still haven't told the girls yet, so trying to figure out when we will. I am trying to think of some surprise...right now Jess thinks we are going to see our FIL who lives in Venice, a couple hours from Disney.

I am also in the 2 week wait (2ww) and those who understand that, know what I mean. I will hopefully know around 18th one way or the other. Fingers crossed.

Stay tuned!

Stylin' n Profilin'

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 02:13:00 +0000

In my new car! Well SUV :) So excited! My car was really staring to fall apart, after all it was a 2001 Grand Am and they usually are only good for about 10 yrs before they need some major work done etc. Now I am the proud owner of a 2008 Suzuki XL-7! LOVE it so far, it seats 7, practically brand new, only 7,700 miles on it and was a prior rental and we got a great price on it!

I can't wait til our trip in May to really see how well I love it compared to my Grand Am we drove to Disney in December. We were crowded and cramped and I was SORE after that 12 hour turned 16 hour drive.

Just wanted to share my happiness for the week!

It's Almost Time To Relay!

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 02:13:00 +0000

Wow time has flown by and it's only 9 days away from the Huntsville Metro Relay For Life! We have done ok raising money for the American Cancer Society (ACS) but could do so much more! I am hopeful we will do decently at the actual Relay since we have things to sell on site.

The theme is "Racing For A Cure" and we are decorating our campsite in the theme. We have a car front and part sides (that look like doors almost) and it's really looking good. The car is deep purple (relay color) with white racing stripes and some purple outlined dice on the "windshield". We are going to add some mirrors on the side and front and headlights and we should be done. I'll be sure to post a pic once it's completed. The team is going to be the Pit Crew, we have matching shirts to go with it as well.

We are still selling raffle tickets for the Nintendo Wii, Tmobile phone, Monaco Passes and SciQuest as well. They are only $2 each, 3 for $5 or 6 for $10. If you aren't interested in raffle tickets, be sure to click the Relay Logo at the top right and make a donation online.

If you are in the Huntsville area, be sure to come out to John Hunt Park on May 1 @ 7pm for the kick off of the Relay! There will be tons of activities, entertainment and more going on plus some great prizes to win!

Thank you to everyone who has donated and helped us towards our goal!

One step forward and then two back....

noreply@blogger.com (Ambitious Blonde) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 21:04:00 +0000

Well another disappointing month in the ttc adventure....Sigh. I thought this may be the month, the month I would get a positive test. I delayed testing as long as I feel I could...cd 28 came and I couldn't resist. I was feeling tired, a little nauseated anyways so I thought, just maybe I would be pregnant. Nothing but a wasted test, came up neg and AF came the next day. It's getting harder each month, negative tests, thinking about the baby I miscarried in Feb and wondering if and when I'll ever get pregnant.

It was 13 cycles before I got pg in Jan..and now back to another one...at 14 total, since Feb was skipped and march as well. It's hard to know we have been trying to get pg since Jan 08 and here it is almost May 09. Sometimes I wonder if we should continue, I'll be 32 in about 3 weeks and the girls are 4 and 8.5 yrs old.... Perhaps I'll give it to the end of this yr and then if I am not pg that will be it. Maybe I am only supposed to have 2 children, maybe that is the plan. I really don't know, hubby and I went back and forth for awhile about this and finally decided to move forward.

I guess once we get back from Disney at the end of May I will go to my Dr in June and see what she says. I never thought I would be on this track of having to seek help to get pregnant since I had no problems the first two times. I know I am not alone in this journey as there are many who go through this but some days it sure feels like it.